Bariatric Pre-Surgery Evaluations: What to Expect & How to Prepare

Introduction to Bariatric Pre-Surgery Evaluations

Bariatric surgery is a medical procedure designed to help individuals with severe obesity lose weight when conventional approaches like diet and exercise are unable to achieve substantial results, or when a serious medical condition limits their ability to carry out these approaches.

Several criteria are considered when determining a patient's eligibility for a bariatric procedure. It is important to note that even if individuals meet some of the criteria for bariatric surgery, it does not guarantee that they will be considered eligible candidates. The final determination can only be made by their appointed healthcare providers, who will assess each patient’s unique circumstances and overall health to make an informed decision.

Common Bariatric surgical approaches:¹

• Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y)
• Sleeve gastrectomy (Gastric Sleeve)
• Adjustable Gastric Banding (Lap-Band Surgery)

In this blog post, we will explore the vital role of pre-surgery evaluations for candidates seeking a Bariatric surgical procedure, including both mental and medical assessments. We’ll discuss why these evaluations are essential for ensuring safety, determining eligibility, and creating personalized care plans. Additionally, we’ll provide insights on what to expect during these evaluations and share practical tips for preparing effectively.

Eligibility Criteria for Bariatric Surgery

• Abnormal Body Mass Index (BMI): According to the Mayo Clinic , typical candidates for a Bariatric surgical procedure, are considered severely obese with a BMI range of 35 and above.²
• History of Failed Conventional Approaches: You must have a history of attempting to treat your obesity with conventional approaches such as exercise or diet. In addition to showcasing that these approaches alone have not achieved substantial results.
• Serious Medical Conditions: Candidates may be eligible if they have a serious medical conditions that restrict their ability to carry out conventional approaches. Some examples are but not limited to certain cardiovascular diseases, cancers, & metabolic disorders.
• Commitment to Long-Term Lifestyle Changes: Even after successful weight loss from a bariatric procedure, it is vital to stay committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper diet and regular exercise.
• Pre-Surgery Psychiatric & Medical Evaluation: Candidates will be required to complete and pass a psychiatric & medical evaluation by a trained medical professional, to ensure they are equipped to cope with the mental and physical challenges that may arise in the process.

Why Pre-Surgery Evaluations Matter & What to Expect

Pre-surgical evaluations are crucial for a bariatric surgery, as there are many elements an individual must be prepared for when deciding to undergo an extensive procedure. During these evaluations, the healthcare provider will discuss several key topics with the patient to determine eligibility.³

• Assessing Mental Health History & Status:  A mental health professional will evaluate an individual's mental health history that could potentially impact their ability to cope with the procedure: such as but not limited to depression, anxiety, mood disorders, eating disorders.
• Identifying Behavioral Patterns: It is crucial to evaluate and identify an individual’s behavioral patterns with diet, exercise, and overall life challenges, to make sure they are well managed prior to the procedure, to avoid potential negative outcomes long-term.
• Evaluating readiness for Change: Bariatric procedures are not designed to be the sole source of treatment for obesity, individuals that undergo this procedure will need to be well prepared to make lifestyle changes to their diet, physical activity, and mental health to ensure that they maintain a healthy weight long-term.
• Setting Realistic Expectations: A trained mental health professional can help patients set realistic expectations regarding the procedure outcomes, healing process, and managing lifestyle changes from then on.
• Identifying and creating a support system: When undergoing a bariatric procedure it is crucial to have a solid support system of not only medical professionals but important people in your daily life like family or friends you can lean on while navigating this journey.

How to Prepare for Your Pre-Surgery Evaluations

To ensure a smooth process with your pre-surgery evaluation there are steps you can take to be prepared:

• Gather Your Medical Records: The medical evaluator will need access to your medical history and documentation required for the assessment.
• Prepare Questions for Your Surgical Healthcare Team: Be sure to consult with your health care team to address any questions you have related to the surgical procedure, surgery risks, recovery, and post-op care.
• Begin Lifestyle Changes Early: Implementing healthy changes now, can better equip you to cope with the healing process and set a foundation for healthy patterns long term.
• Be Honest in Your Evaluations: These evaluations should be taken seriously and answered honestly, to ensure your safety and success should you undergo this surgery.

Choosing a Healthcare Professional

Consulting with a medical professional experienced in bariatric pre-surgery evaluations is crucial. Start by asking your surgeon for trusted referral recommendations, and consult your insurance provider to identify approved in-network professionals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, bariatric pre-surgery evaluations are an essential step for anyone considering a bariatric surgery. These evaluations can provide healthcare professionals and patients with the tools to make the safest and best informed treatment decision.

They ensure not only that the individual is prepared to undergo the procedure, but also that they have a solid foundation of support and self coping skills to ensure commitment to a lifelong healthy regimen.